Invincibility depends on one's self; the enemy's vulnerability on him.

He must be able to mystify his officers and men by false reports and appearances, and thus keep them in total ignorance.

If you are situated at a great distance from the enemy, and the strength of the two armies is equal, it is not easy to provoke a battle, and fighting will be to your disadvantage.

According to my assessment, even if you have many more troops than others, how can that help you to victory?

On the field of battle, the spoken word does not carry far enough; hence the institution of gongs and drums... banners and flags. Gongs and drums, banners and flags, are means whereby the ears and eyes of the host may be focused on one particular point.

To capture the enemy's entire army is better than to destroy it; to take intact a regiment, a company, or a squad is better than to destroy them. For to win one hundred victories in one hundred battles is not the supreme of excellence. To subdue the enemy without fighting is the supreme excellence.

It is the business of a general to be quiet and thus ensure secrecy; upright and just, and thus maintain order.